Gunns Plains Cave State Reserve

Gunns Plains Cave State Reserve, established in 1918, is one of Tasmania's oldest cave reserves. The cave was discovered when a hunter's dog fell into a hole, leading to its exploration and subsequent development as a tourist attraction. Visitors can embark on guided tours to witness impressive calcite formations, including the Wedding Cake, and observe glow worms illuminating the cave's interior. The underground river that formed the cave still flows beneath, providing a habitat for platypus, freshwater crayfish, fish, and eels. The surrounding area features lush vegetation typical of Tasmania's high rainfall regions. The cave entrance is accessible via a steep flight of stairs, and the tour route spans approximately 275 meters. Visitors are advised to wear low-heeled walking shoes. The reserve is located 30 kilometers south of Ulverstone; from Burnie or Devonport, it's a 45-minute drive, and from Launceston, approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The cave entrance is 30 meters from the car park. For more information, including tour times and admission prices, contact (03) 6429 1388.